Don’t Miss These 20 Bucket List Destinations For 2024

This publish might include affiliate hyperlinks. We might obtain a small fee, for gratis to you, should you make a purchase order. Learn Disclosure.

It’s that point of yr once more; the time to start out planning your bucket listing journey locations for the yr! 

We consider everybody ought to have a journey bucket listing. Although we’ve traveled extensively for over 25 years, we nonetheless have locations which are but to be ticked off ours.

A journey bucket listing isn’t just a set of dream locations; it manifests our deepest wishes, fueling our wanderlust and igniting our adventurous spirit. 

In a latest survey by Viator, we discovered the 15 high locations that Individuals are including to their bucket listing for 2024. Whereas many Individuals like to remain near dwelling (New York Metropolis, The Grand Canyon) some have added some iconic locations to their lists which are additional afield.

Inquisitive about what probably the most sought-after locations are? Listed below are the highest bucket listing locations for 2024…

Prime Bucket Listing Locations For 2024

Under are the highest locations that Individuals have chosen so as to add to their bucket listing in response to the Viator survey. They’re ranked so as of favorites.

Afterward, we’ll share just a few extra locations that we personally suppose must be added to anybody’s bucket listing.

1. New York Metropolis, USA

In line with the survey, 23% of Individuals mentioned that New York Metropolis tops their journey bucket listing for 2024. It’s unsurprising, the Massive Apple is probably the most iconic metropolis within the USA!

It’s dwelling to among the nation’s most notable landmarks resembling The Statue of Liberty, The Empire State Constructing, and Central Park.

With its iconic skyline, vibrant tradition, and countless sights, there are such a lot of issues to do in NYC that make it a worthy addition to any journey bucket listing. 

From exploring world-class museums just like the Metropolitan Museum of Artwork to feeling the excitement of Instances Sq. and indulging within the metropolis’s foodie scene, there’s a cause why New York Metropolis known as the town that by no means sleeps.

When you’re searching for a novel expertise, make sure to go to through the summer time months when the town comes alive with out of doors concert events, festivals, and occasions. It’s the proper time to immerse your self within the vitality and pleasure that NYC affords. 

2. Paris, France

One other in style favourite so as to add to the journey bucket listing is Paris, which acquired 20% of the vote amongst Individuals. Because the French Capital and probably the most romantic metropolis on the earth, Paris is a fascinating vacation spot that everybody ought to expertise a minimum of as soon as.

From strolling alongside the Avenue des Champs-Élysées to climbing the steps of the Eiffel Tower, to picnics within the park adopted by a stroll alongside the Seine River, and late afternoons spent wandering the halls of the Louvre and admiring its many inventive treasures – there is sufficient to see and do in Paris to maintain you busy for days.

It’s a metropolis that beckons these with a love of the humanities, tradition, and historical past. 

Paris is arguably finest seen within the spring months when the town blooms with vibrant colours and boasts delicate climate. 

3. London, England

London is one other metropolis that wants no introduction. For 17.8% of Individuals surveyed, it’s the highest vacation spot so as to add to their bucket listing for 2024.

It’s a metropolis steeped in wealthy historical past and plenty of various, cultural sights. With iconic landmarks like Massive Ben, the Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace, there’s an plain appeal that units London aside from every other metropolis on the earth. 

From exploring world-class museums resembling The British Museum and Tate Trendy to having fun with scenic London views of the Thames River from The London Eye, there’s a lot to see and do right here.

One more reason why London ranks excessive on the bucket listing for many individuals is for its bustling nightlife scene; from stand-up comedy gigs to West Finish Theatre productions to jazz bars, dwell music venues, and nightclubs – it’s a metropolis that’s as bustling at evening as it’s within the day.

It’s additionally the best metropolis to get your buying repair. Store in classic, thrift retailer heaven in Notting Hill or Camden Market, or discover excessive avenue labels on the bustling Oxford Avenue, or designer manufacturers at Harrods and Selfridges – those that need to half with some money will discover loads of locations to spend it in London.

In order for you a very bucket listing expertise in your travels although, you need to time your go to to London for the Spring Equinox. The reason being you may take a day journey to the traditional Stonehenge, a prehistoric construction manufactured from stone monoliths which have baffled historians for many years.

Through the Spring Equinox, the positioning is known for being a spot the place pagans and druids have a good time this time of yr with chanting, drumming, and dancing. It occurs annually, so don’t miss it!

4. Yellowstone Nationwide Park, USA

Yellowstone Nationwide Park is maybe probably the most well-known nationwide park within the USA, well-known for its sizzling springs and geothermal websites, in addition to America’s largest buffalo herd and grizzly bear inhabitants.

What makes Yellowstone Nationwide Park distinctive is that it has 10,000 hydrothermal websites, which equates to nearly half the world’s energetic geysers.

Be mesmerized by geysers, resembling the enduring Previous Devoted, and go to over 290 waterfalls within the park – it’s a haven for nature lovers all over the place. 

The park’s various landscapes, together with canyons, forests, and meadows, present countless alternatives for journey. Regardless of the place you’re from, Yellowstone guarantees to go away you with recollections that can final a lifetime.

The wonderful thing about Yellowstone is you can go to any time of the yr, which means you may add it to your bucket listing any time of the yr. Arguably, one of the best time to go to Yellowstone is from April and Might and September and October, when the crowds are fewer and the climate is okay.

5. Hawaii, USA

In line with 15% of Individuals, the tropical paradise of Hawaii is an absolute must-add to your journey bucket listing. 

With its breathtaking surroundings, heat aloha spirit, and beautiful seashores, Hawaii affords a very magical expertise. 

A few of the high issues to do in Hawaii are to go to Pearl Harbour and find out about Hawaii’s involvement in WWII, drive the highway to Hana, witness volcanoes erupting in Volcanoes Nationwide Park, snorkel with Manta Rays, and expertise an genuine Hawaiian Luau.

Hawaii is finest visited between March and April when the climate is okay and it’s nonetheless whale season, which runs from November till April. That is the proper time to catch humpback whales and their child calves on their annual migration off the shores of Maui, Oahu, and Kauai. 

6. Rome, Italy

One other high European metropolis so as to add to your bucket listing is the traditional capital of the Western Empire, Rome. Often known as the Everlasting Metropolis, Rome is a fascinating vacation spot that provides a novel mix of historic historical past and distinctive experiences. 

From exploring the awe-inspiring Colosseum, one of many Seven Wonders of the World, to marveling on the intricate structure of the Vatican, Rome is a treasure trove for historical past fanatics. 

Nevertheless it’s not simply in regards to the previous; Rome additionally delights with its bustling piazzas, fashionable boutiques, and delectable delicacies. Considered one of our favourite issues to do in Rome is to embark on a meals tour, the place you may bask in mouthwatering pastas, and creamy gelato, and pattern a wealthy espresso as you wander the streets of this enchanting metropolis. 

With its timeless magnificence and irresistible attract, Rome guarantees an unforgettable journey by means of the ages.

7. Nice Barrier Reef, Australia

On the subject of iconic nature websites, it’s no surprise the Nice Barrier Reef is considered one of many high locations so as to add to your journey bucket listing. 

This pure surprise, situated off the East Coast of Australia, is the most important coral reef on the earth and is named one of many Seven Pure Wonders of the World. 

Whereas the Nice Barrier Reef extends for 1,429 miles, most individuals journey to Cairns to entry the reef on snorkeling and diving excursions. 

For a extra idyllic getaway, think about heading South in Queensland to the Whitsunday Islands, the place true paradise could be discovered. Be dazzled by the fantastic thing about Whitehaven Seashore earlier than you head out to discover the colourful underwater realm of the reef.

From encountering majestic sea turtles to witnessing the balletic actions of sleek manta rays, the Nice Barrier Reef is a vacation spot that can depart you in awe of the wonders of our planet.

The most effective time to go to The Nice Barrier Reef is from Might to October when the climate is at its finest and the waters are calm and clear.

P.S. We’re Australian, and have traveled the nation in-depth, together with an 18 month lap across the nation in a journey trailer. Search our web site or click on for our high Australia journey ideas.

8. Tokyo, Japan

Arguably probably the most distinctive and various metropolis on the earth is Tokyo, a metropolis the place expertise vastly overtakes each different metropolis on the planet, and the place historic traditions and modernity collide.

This vibrant metropolis must be on everybody’s journey bucket listing, as there are few locations on the earth the place you may discover historic temples and serene gardens by day, and have your meals served to you by a robotic at evening.

Take pleasure in mouthwatering Japanese delicacies, from sushi to ramen, and uncover hidden gems among the many backstreets of the Harajuku district. Cross the world’s busiest crossing, see the place anime and manga had been born, or get again into nature with a go to to Hakone Nationwide Park for a dip in an onsen earlier than catching views of Mount Fuji.

There are such a lot of issues to do in Tokyo, it’s no surprise 13.9% of Individuals added it to the highest of their bucket listing for 2024.

The most effective time to go to Tokyo is within the Spring for the enchanting cherry blossom season. For simply 10-14 days, the cherry blossoms bloom throughout the town, making a sight that’s completely mesmerizing.

9. Grand Canyon, USA

This subsequent landmark wants no introduction; it’s probably some of the well-known pure wonders of the world and a high bucket listing attraction for 13.1% of Individuals.

The Grand Canyon, carved over hundreds of thousands of years by the mighty Colorado River, extends for 227 miles and is round 4,000 toes deep. 

For the adventurous, embark on an exhilarating white-water rafting expedition by means of the canyon, immersing your self in its uncooked energy. 

Because the solar units, witness the canyon remodeled right into a canvas of vibrant hues, making a fascinating spectacle that can depart you speechless.

For a bucket listing expertise, make sure to try the Canyon Skywalk, the place you may stroll alongside a horse-shoe-shaped bridge with a glass flooring, permitting you to see into the depths of the canyon.

We personally discover visiting the Grand Canyon a bit overrated and overrun with vacationers, so if you wish to go to someplace equally as huge and delightful, think about heading to Horseshoe Bend, which is simply an hour’s drive from the primary Grand Canyon viewing space.

Or, escape the crowds and head to the quieter simply as stunning North Rim of the Grand Canyon. And think about visiting Grand Canyon within the winter for a novel perspective.

The most effective time to go to The Grand Canyon is in March-Might when the climate is at its most interesting and there aren’t as many vacationers as there are in the summertime months.

10. Santorini, Greece

Over the previous few years, the Greek Island of Santorini has grown massively in recognition. These touring listed here are looking for to witness the enduring sunsets as they solid their orange glow on the whitewashed partitions and blue domed ceilings of the buildings that make this island well-known.

Santorini is a vacation spot for leisure and serenity, which is why it’s one of many high locations for honeymooners and {couples} alike. 

Made up of small and charming villages perched on volcanic cliffs, the place slender cobblestone streets result in breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, Santorini is a spot the place you may relax and unwind. 

The most effective time to go to Santorini is from April till October when the climate is dry and heat. The summer time months do are usually crowded with vacationers, however because it’s a preferred bucket listing vacation spot, it’s unlikely you’ll discover a quiet time frame right here in 2024!

For different locations to go to in Greece think about Crete, Zakynthos Island, or the Peloponnese peninsula.

11. Machu Picchu, Peru

For 12.6% of Individuals, the traditional settlement of Machu Picchu hits the highest spot of their bucket listing. 

Nestled excessive within the Andes Mountains of Peru, this mystical Incan citadel is among the most sought-after journey locations in South America.

There are various methods to achieve Machu Picchu, however the most well-liked method to get there’s to trek by means of lush jungles and rugged terrain of the Inca Path, a ten-day hike that the Incas used to stroll to achieve this awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Web site. 

After an extended hike, the reward of a wide ranging panorama above the sacred ruins with craggy mountains and clouds within the background will make sure to depart you in awe. 

Machu Picchu is a spot of surprise, the place nature and human ingenuity intertwine to create an unforgettable expertise.

The most effective time to go to for a bucket listing expertise is the Spring and Autumn Equinox when at midday, the Intihuatana stone casts no shadow. This occurs solely twice a yr, so make sure to time your go to properly to witness this distinctive phenomenon.

Don’t miss this thrilling 10 Day Itinerary for Peru

12. Niagara Falls, USA/Canada

One other pure landmark within the USA that lands on high of 12.3% of Individuals’s bucket listing this yr is Niagara Falls.

Situated on the border of Canada and the USA, this majestic waterfall will depart you in awe of the sheer energy of the cascading water because it plunges as much as 57 meters into the misty abyss under. 

Climb aboard a ship tour to really feel the refreshing spray in your face as you sail to the bottom of the thundering Horseshoe Falls and American Falls. 

The most effective time to go to Niagara Falls is September after the summer time crowds have dispersed and the climate stays heat.

13. Barcelona, Spain

The cosmopolitan metropolis of Barcelona is the Catalan Capital some of the influential cities in Spain and a bucket listing place for 12.1% of Individuals this yr.

It’s a treasure trove of cultural delights and architectural wonders, from the whimsical creations of Antoni Gaudí, together with the enduring Sagrada Familia and enchanting Park Güell, to the slender medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter. There isn’t a scarcity of sights in Barcelona to maintain anybody busy. 

Indulge your style buds in delectable tapas and sip on refreshing sangria at charming native taverns, or absorb the solar on the attractive seashores of Barceloneta or take a stroll alongside the bustling La Rambla. 

The most effective time to go to Barcelona for a bucket listing expertise is in September for La Mercè, the most important avenue celebration in Europe.

Barcelona seamlessly merges custom and modernity, providing an unforgettable expertise for each traveler.

14. Reykjavik, Iceland

For a lot of, an opportunity to see the Aurora (Northern Lights) is a bucket listing expertise to not miss. For 12.1% of Individuals, it’s their primary bucket listing second for 2024!

Iceland is the land of fireplace and ice and is the place to go if you wish to witness the mesmerizing phenomenon of the dancing Northern Lights or be captivated by the Midnight Solar, the place daylight stretches endlessly. 

Immerse your self within the rejuvenating geothermal baths, the place you may soak within the therapeutic powers of Iceland’s pure sizzling springs, or discover beautiful landscapes dotted with glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and black lava seashores. 

From glacier trekking to whale watching, Iceland affords a novel mix of pure magnificence far past the wonders of the evening sky.

The most effective time to go to Iceland for the Northern Lights is within the winter, from September to April when the skies are darker for longer.

Reykjavik, Iceland is one place we’re contemplating to go to this yr since there are direct flights from Raleigh!

15. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Lastly, for 11.8% of Individuals, the tropical island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia takes the highest spot on their bucket listing.

Referred to as the jewel of the South Pacific, this island paradise is a chic mix of pure magnificence, luxurious, and tranquility. 

From its beautiful turquoise lagoons to its powdery white sand seashores, Bora Bora exudes an irresistible attract. 

Marvel on the legendary Mount Otemanu, an impressive volcanic peak that dominates the panorama, or head out on a snorkel tour to marvel on the marine life, or should you’re actually adventurous, head out for an exhilarating shark encounter. 

Keep in an overwater bungalow and be enveloped within the heat embrace of Polynesian hospitality – it’s one of many high honeymoon locations for a cause.

The most effective time to go to Bora Bora is between Might and October, which is the dry season on the island.

Extra Bucket Listing Locations For 2024

The above locations are what Individuals have voted to be their high bucket listing locations, however we really feel there are another gems which have been missed from this listing.

Listed below are another bucket listing locations you may need to think about.

16. Taj Mahal, India

We consider the Taj Mahal is a type of locations you could go to earlier than you die. A timeless masterpiece situated in Agra, India, the Taj Mahal is an architectural marvel that may be a testomony to like and craftsmanship. 

Stated to have been constructed as a funerary monument to recollect the late spouse of Shah Jahan, Mumtaz Mahal, the ethereal great thing about the ivory-white marble adorned with intricate carvings will take your breath away. 

Witness the play of sunshine on its floor, reworking it from comfortable pink hues at dawn to golden tones at sundown. 

The Taj Mahal’s historical past and symbolism make it a pilgrimage for romantics and seekers of magnificence everywhere in the world, which is why it deserves a spot on everybody’s bucket listing.

One can find one of the best time to go to the Taj Mahal is within the winter months from October to March when the climate is dry however not unbearably sizzling.

17. Petra, Jordan

One other high place to go to earlier than you die is Petra, an historic archeological web site within the Jordan desert.

Carved into rose-hued sandstone cliffs, this historic metropolis takes you again to a time of a misplaced civilization. 

Traverse the slender Siq, a mesmerizing gorge that leads you to the enduring Treasury, its intricate façade a testomony to the architectural brilliance of the Nabateans. 

Discover the huge expanse of tombs, temples, and dwellings carved into the rock, every with its personal story to inform. 

The most effective time of yr to go to Petra is in Spring and Autumn when the climate is dry however not too sizzling.

I visited Petra (through a 9 mile hike) on a improbable Jordan Globus Escape tour. Don’t miss this stuff to know earlier than visiting Jordan and use our low cost under if you wish to be part of a Globus tour!

18. The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

One other historic surprise of the world that must be on everybody’s bucket listing is the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. 

These historic marvels merely can’t be ignored as masters of engineering, willpower, and craftsmanship. 

As you stand in awe earlier than these towering buildings, you may’t assist however really feel the burden of historical past in your shoulders. Constructed as tombs for Egyptian pharaohs, every pyramid carries with it a story of grandeur and thriller. 

The sheer magnitude and enigma surrounding the Pyramids of Giza are what make them a bucket listing vacation spot to not be missed. 

Be sure you try the close by Sphinx monument, particularly through the Spring and Autumn equinox when the solar units on the shoulder of the Sphinx, inflicting a light-weight spectacle that photographers will experience.

I’ve seen six of my Australian buddies go to Egypt this previous two months – a promising signal that it’s a sizzling spot for 2024.

Listed below are another causes to go to Egypt and finest issues to do in Cairo.

19. Serengeti, Kenya

For animal lovers, an opportunity to see wildlife roam of their pure habitat must be on the high of their bucket listing. After all, among the best methods to see wildlife is on a safari, and the place higher to find the untamed great thing about the wild than from the Serengeti in Kenya?

As you enterprise throughout huge plains and golden savannahs, put together to witness the breathtaking spectacle of one in all nature’s best exhibits – the Nice Migration. That is when hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebras traverse the land searching for greener pastures, pursued by predators in an exhilarating dance of life and dying. 

Look out for animals on the hunt, from ferocious lions to elusive leopards. You might also see sleek giraffes grazing within the timber, and herds of elephants as they migrate huge distances.

The Serengeti is an African Nature Reserve that guarantees an unforgettable wildlife expertise and an opportunity to attach with nature in its purest type.

The most effective time to go to the Serengeti is July – October which is when the Nice Migration takes place and can also be when the climate is at its finest.

On the opposite aspect of the Kenyan border is the Masai Mara Nationwide Reserve, which along with the Serengeti varieties the Serengeti-Mara Ecosystem (aka the Serengeti Ecosystem). Technically the identical park, simply divided by a border, a reputation change, and completely different authorities management!

Now we have visited the Masai and liked it. We additionally took a practice by means of the Serengeti. Nothing like seeing giraffes by means of a practice window!

Don’t miss these different awe-inspiring issues to do in East and South Africa. Don’t miss these security ideas for journey in Africa and one of the best ideas for wildlife viewing.

20. Antarctica

Lastly, for the true traveler and adventurer, a bucket listing vacation spot to contemplate is the wild and distant land of Antarctica.

An expedition to the frozen frontier isn’t any peculiar journey. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime alternative for many, providing an opportunity to see the pristine continent that’s untouched by human civilization and full with otherworldly landscapes of ice and snow. 

Witness towering glaciers calving into the ocean, encounter unimaginable wildlife resembling penguins, seals, and whales, and expertise the ability of the tough but fragile ecosystem right here.

Antarctica affords a humbling expertise. It reminds us of nature’s grandeur and the significance of preserving our planet. 

The most effective time to go to Antarctica is November to March when the wildlife is flourishing and the climate is at its finest.

Remark: What’s in your bucket listing for 2024? What number of of those locations have you ever already visited? (I’ve visited 12)